Buying a Double Buggy From Birth

When choosing the perfect double buggy, there are a lot of things to take into consideration. Katie Billingsley, a postnatal retreat expert from the Fourth Trimester, gave us her advice on everything ranging from seating options and age groups to folding mechanisms and storage.

A must-have purchase for active families This buggy can grow with your family from twins through to toddlers. It is lightweight and movable, and is able to handle uneven terrain easily.

What kind of buggy would you like?

Double buggys are ideal for transporting up to two children at the same time, even if they are not the same age. They can be used as prams and come with the ability to recline in each seat so your children can lay down in various positions. Many have ample storage for everything from snacks and drinks to wipes and nappies. They are usually light that folds easily and are small enough to fit in your car's boot. If you travel a lot deal, it's important to check that the buggy can be easily moved with the wheels folded in your car boot and removed.

You might have seen this kind of double buggy on other mums strollers or even in one as a kid. These are great for older siblings that want to keep up with you, or for twins. They usually have numerous seating configurations (including 'cinema' seats) for your little ones to pick from. They're usually pretty easy to drive and, if you opt for a model with a soft suspension, they can be a breeze to get rid of the kerbs.

Tandem buggies are another popular option because they're easier to turn than side-by-side. This is due to the fact that the second seat sits behind the first, rather than over it. They're typically bigger than a side-byside and can be a bit bulky when folded, so it's important to check they'll fit through doors and on public transport. They can be used to transport twins, a baby and toddler or three children with the addition of a buggy.

Lastly there are the'single-to-double' convertibles which can be used as a single pushchair from birth then convert to a double by attaching a second seat, carrycot or car seat to their clever frame. They're generally more expensive than side-by-sides or tandem buggies, but they offer a lot of versatility and a good return on investment. They are easy to steer and have large storage bins. They also have the ability to handle uneven surfaces. Some models come with a built-in ride-on boards for older children and 'cinema seats'.

Do you have twins?

Double buggys are the most efficient method of transporting your children, regardless of whether they are twins or older siblings. There are two kinds of double buggies: tandem buggies, which have one child sitting above the other, and side by side buggies. Both can be fitted with two fixed seats, but side-by-side buggies are typically narrower in width to allow for access through doors. Tandems are typically wider overall. They can also accommodate a carrycot or toddler seat.

Do you have one?

At first the idea of having a younger sibling could feel like a lot of responsibility especially if you are also taking care of the baby. They might be feeling a little secluded when they are in a baby carrier while you push the older sibling to the side and having a double buggy from birth can make things easier. It can also help your child settle into their new role of a 'big sister or brother'.

Side-by-side double buggies are usually considered to be the best choice for twins as they let both children enjoy the same view, but they can be heavy and heavy. The Leclerc B-AGILE DUAL is a streamlined double buggy with a unique frame that can be expanded widthwise and can accommodate two seats fixed. It also comes with a variety of configuration options such as using the second seat as the bassinet.

We recommend the Mountain Buggy Double Trailblazer to families who like to explore. This innovative buggy is a single twin pushchair that can be converted into double by adding an additional seat or carrycot (depending on model). Its smooth ride is perfect for rough terrain and it has lots of thoughtful features to ensure that everyone is happy.

Do you require a travel system?

Double buggies can be a great way to transport your children safely. However they aren't necessary for every family. You may be able make do with a single stroller, and some attachments such as baby carriers and toddler straps that allow your child and you to travel on their backs or in the front.

If you decide to go with a double stroller for twins buggy, there are three types to choose from: side-by-side or tandem, and convertible. Side-by-side buggies come with two seats positioned near each other, meaning that your children will be able see each one another. They are wider than a single stroller and aren't easy to maneuver around the kerbs. Tandem buggies are small, with one seat in the front and another at the back. However, they can be heavy and lengthy to push.

Convertible double buggies allow you to transform one stroller into a double buggy by securing an infant car seat to the frame. You can leave your baby in the car seat until he or is ready to step up into the buggy seat. The UPPababy V2 is a great example - it can be used with twins, a toddler and one or more children using the option of a PiggyBack Board.

Once your children are older and have more endurance, a double-buggy can be used to accompany them on bike rides or day trips where they'd prefer walking. But, it's important to remember that they might not always prefer to ride in a buggy and could easily get tired and angry when they are on longer excursions.

So, before you decide to invest in a double buggy at the time of birth make sure you consider the above factors and the specific circumstances of your family. A durable and reliable double buggy can make life easier, particularly when you have to navigate busy streets or overcrowded malls.